Does the Transport make a significant difference

Some have made the case that transports are equal or perhaps more important for overall sound quality Than the DAC..I can tell you that the PS Audio PWT is an excellent transport to consider(exceptional value used). Jfrech is right, all the individual pieces matter.

Jfrech,
So true!
And everyone has their own opinion as to what to do.
Ricred1, looking at your set up I would probably consider a higher end CDP and/or a transport.
I would select the CDP or dedicated transport at this time over a preamp.
There are so many very good brands out there I hate to make a suggestion.

Receed1, I agree with others that a better transport will make a world of difference, what I don't agree with is that there are many good ones. My experience tells me otherwise, irrespective of price most are bad.

As Jfrech mentioned mentioned care should be taken in selection of the digital cable.

You can also benefit from a preamp upgrade. What I wouldn't spend a penny on are power cords and overpriced wires.
david

Dkarmeli,

I spend what I feel comfortable spending on each component, including wires and power cords. I can only speak from my experiences and I have heard significant differences when changing cables.

The difference depends on what your sonic priorities are and whether the upgraded transport does things that you find make the sound more enjoyable. I really think you need to actually try one to find out. Either buy something new with a return privilege, or buy something used at a good price that you can sell at a minimal loss if you're not happy with it.